Steelite International: Individuality On A Plate

When people visit hotels and restaurants these days, they expect a great deal more than starched tablecloths and great-tasting food. Indeed, an increasingly important aspect is how – and on what – the cuisine is served. Before actually enjoying it, many people like to admire the plate or dish itself, as the aesthetic art of presentation, allied to durability and longevity, is increasingly becoming as important as the food itself.

Wendy Morrison is only too aware of the impact that good quality tableware can have on the customer experience. As Regional Business Manager for Scotland for Steelite International, a leading manufacturer and supplier of award-winning tabletop ranges for the hospitality industry, it’s her job to educate hoteliers, restaurateurs, chefs, caterers and sommeliers about the importance of quality tableware, cutlery and glassware in a hospitality environment:

‘Because we understand every pound is so important to operators these days, we have introduced an industry-leading lifetime edge-chip warranty on all products manufactured in our Stoke on Trent factory,’ she explains.

‘All Steelite International tableware manufactured in Stoke on Trent is Made for Life and is a demonstration of excellent quality, inspired design, outstanding customer service and minimal environmental impact.’

So convinced is Wendy of the quality of Steelite International’s Made For Life products that she is currently promoting them not only as a well-designed, efficient and environmentally friendly proposition for all levels of the market, but also as a genuine investment:

‘We have invested a considerable amount in our manufacturing processes in the last few years, and we’ve come up with a range of designs which look better than ever. On ranges such as the Monaco Fine we have also saved 10-15% in weight, with no compromise on durability, and because our products are typically four times as durable as inferior imported products, operators can recoup their investment over time. As with so many things, lower grade products eventually prove to be a false economy.’

As well as the inspired design and excellent quality of all ranges which carry the Made For Life mark, Wendy believes that the products are suited to virtually any type of business or organisation:

Moreover, Steelite International’s after-sales service doubles as a consultancy and product-support facility for customers: ‘If we are approached to supply tableware for an establishment, we can visit and get a feel for the site, and then link the best-suited products to the atmosphere of that particular business,’ she concludes.

‘At the end of the day, we’re as much consultants as manufacturers, and I think that’s what sets us apart from the competition.’

So, the next time you’re treated to a meal in a well respected establishment, have a look at the tableware you’re using: if it’s of superior quality and makes the best of the food in front of you, the chances are you’re in good hands. If not, then just be careful how you handle it.